Nagpur: Chief minister Devendra on Thursday directed officials to ensure that the proposed world-class convention and exhibition centre near the airport becomes operational by 2029. Fadnavis described it as a transformative project that would strengthen the city’s position as a national and international hub for business, tourism and big-ticket events.Chairing a high-level review meeting in Mumbai, Fadnavis said the project should be executed within the stipulated timeline by expediting land transfer, tendering and construction.Fadnavis said the centre would be developed in sync with the planned urban expansion around Nagpur airport, taking advantage of the city’s air, rail and road connectivity. He said the city needs a high-capacity convention venue capable of attracting global events and investment.The CM also directed that the facility should evolve beyond a business venue into a cultural landmark for the city. “The architecture should be attractive, technologically advanced and environmentally sustainable,” he said, stressing the incorporation of energy-efficient systems, green technologies and eco-friendly design.Fadnavis further said the project should help create a skilled workforce for the hospitality, media, event management, tourism and related service sectors, reinforcing Nagpur’s emergence as a major destination for conventions, exhibitions and industry.
